FCT Minister denies links to alleged appointment of seven advisers

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mariya Mahmoud, has denied any connection to the appointment of seven advisers reportedly announced by Bin Usman Rano, who allegedly identified himself as her media aide.

In a statement released on Monday by her Special Assistant on Media, Austine Elemue, the minister’s office said the appointments did not originate from her office.

Elemue stated that he is the only authorised media aide permitted to issue official statements on behalf of the minister.

The statement explained that Rano is not a staff member of the minister’s office but is linked to the Dr Mariya Support Group, a political organisation backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Any appointments, designations, announcements or authorisations issued by Mr Bin Usman Rano are strictly related to the affairs of the support group and have no connection whatsoever with the Office of the Honourable Minister of State, FCT, or the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA),” the statement said.

Rano had reportedly announced the appointment of seven aides over the weekend, covering areas such as media, protocol, student affairs, youth and sports, religious affairs, and special duties.

The minister’s office advised members of the public, media organisations and government agencies to rely only on official channels for information relating to her office.

The statement also reaffirmed Dr Mahmoud’s commitment to transparency, accountability and effective communication in carrying out her responsibilities.